Falafel

Yield 24 patties

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups dried chickpeas (DO NOT use canned or cooked chickpeas)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
  • 3/4 cup of fresh cilantro leaves (stems removed)
  • 1/2 cup of fresh dill (stems removed)
  • 1 small onion, quartered
  • 7-8 garlic cloves, peeled
  • a pinch or two of salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • oil for frying

One day in advance – place the dried chickpeas and baking soda in a large bowl filled with water to cover the chickpeas by at least 2 inches. Soak overnight (at least 18 hours or longer). When soft, drain the chickpeas completely and pat dry.

Add the chickpeas, herbs, onions, garlic and spices to a food processor and combine forming a mixture.

Transfer the falafel mixture to a container and cover tightly. Refrigerate overnight.

Just before frying, stir in the baking powder and sesame seeds. Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture and make 1/2 inch “patties”. It make help to wet your hands.

Air Fryer – 400 degrees – Lightly brush your falafel patties with olive oil and add them to the air fyer basket. Do not overcrowd. Fry for 5 minutes, check to make sure they are crisp. Flip to the other side and fry for 5 more minutes. Add time on each side if needed – falafel should be crispy and golden brown on each side.

Pan frying – frying oil should be at 375 degrees – usually achieved at medium high heat. Fry until each side is a deep golden brown color on the outside.

Serve in a Buddha Bowl, or in a pita with cucumbers, tomatoes, tahini or hummus and arugula.

Falafel Sauce/Tahini Sauce

  • 1-2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup of tahini paste
  • 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1 cup of fresh chopped parsley (stems removed)

Combine the garlic, tahini paste and lime juice in a food processor and blend. Add a little bit of water to reach desired consistency (like salad dressing). Stir in parsley and serve.